Backroom Laughs promised in new comedy club
Some of the country's most talented comedians come to The Lantern on Watergate Street on Saturday 24th April hoping to help lift the gloom caused by the miserable economic climate. The inaugural 'Backroom Laughs' event features several comedians who've been enjoying success on the country's highly competitive stand-up comedy circuit. Alan Gernon, who runs the club and is resident MC, says that it's a chance for the Navan public to catch these acts before they make it huge. "The general public may not be familiar with some of these comedians because they've not released dvds, but that does not mean they're not funny. "These guys are making huge waves on the Irish comedy scene. Most have either been on tv or won the country's top new comedy competitions. We hope 'Backroom Laughs' becomes a monthly event, showcasing the best in Irish comedy to the Navan public" says the Navan man. The gig is headlined by Colum McDonnell, who's appeared on numerous comedy shows on TV including Paramount Comedy Channel's 'World Stands Up', 'Podge & Rodge', 'Republic of Telly' and 'Touching People' and is widely regarded as Ireland's fastest rising comedy star. The Dundalk man is a regular in all the major clubs in Ireland including Vicar Street and the Laughter Lounge, touring with the likes of Ardal O'Hanlon, Joe Rooney, Jason Byrne and Colin Murphy. Support acts include Gerry McBride who has recently won the Best New Act award at the Father Ted Tedfest. He also won the prestigious ComedyDublin Best Comedian award last year and was finalist in Bulmers new act competition. Joining them will be Barry Mack, described by Phoenix Magazine as having "line after line of pure comic madness", and Kells newcomer Padraig Ryan. Alan Gernon himself has been described as "a future comedy star" by 2FM and has just been commissioned to write and perform comedy sketches for RTE's 'Monday Night Soccer'. Admission is €10 or €8 with concessions. Copper & Spices, gig sponsor, are also offering a four-course meal with comedy ticket for €30 per person. Doors open at 9pm but be there early as demand will be high.